Ivy Tech Community College is expanding its CDL program to include classes at its Kokomo, Indiana campus.
The first cohort of the 160-hour CDL program began Dec. 2. A new class will start every four weeks. Classes will run a 3-to-1 student/instructor ratio “to ensure our students get the most in-depth and comprehensive training experience possible,” the college said in a statement. The program is a partnership with Summit Commercial Driver Training.
Students will spend the first week on the Ivy Tech Community College Kokomo campus. The remaining 120 hours will focus on hands-on training on the road.
Joseph Heinlein, a training manager with Summit, is directing the Kokomo campus program. He has more than 30 years of experience in the industry.
“Driving a truck is serious business. In the current shortage, companies are finding it difficult to get their products out on time. Freight is getting backed up. The problems in our distribution system can snowball. But this program offers a wide range of opportunities for people who want to take advantage of it,” Heinlein said. “The industry is working to increase professionalism and to make the job more attractive in terms of income and scheduling. The Ivy Tech program offers an accredited way to get prepared for jobs that are waiting at local companies like Syndicate Sales and Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Kokomo. All are in urgent need of drivers.”
Tuition is $4,750 but funding opportunities may be available. The program is a part of Indiana’s Next Level Jobs initiative, which lets employers qualify for up to $5,000 per employee (up to $50,000) for training programs that help meet workforce demand, such as CDL training.
